Uganda-DRC Roadmap for Border Reaffirmation Set Amid Economic Gains

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda recently held a crucial Joint Technical Committee (JTC) meeting in Goma, aimed at reaffirming their shared border. The meeting, organized with close cooperation between the two governments, was conducted in a peaceful and constructive environment, free from security threats. Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs played a pivotal role in coordinating the country's participation, ensuring the meeting’s success.

A key outcome of the talks was the creation of a comprehensive roadmap and budget for reaffirming approximately 817 kilometers of the Uganda-DRC border. So far, only 44.8 kilometers have been reaffirmed, specifically the 28-kilometer stretch from Offo/Vura and the 16.8-kilometer section from Sarambwe/Bwindi. While these milestones are significant, much work remains to be done to complete the entire reaffirmation process.

One critical discussion clarified that 22 Uganda Investment Authority (UIA) pillars along the Kisoro/Bunagana area are not boundary markers, resolving potential disputes. This emphasizes the importance of technical expertise in such diplomatic engagements.

The reaffirmation, once completed, is expected to boost cross-border cooperation, create detailed topographic maps, and install permanent boundary pillars. The joint activities, projected to cost USD 3,142,260, will be equally funded by both nations. A previous budgetary framework established during a 2018 meeting in Entebbe will guide the financial planning of this initiative, further contributing to regional stability.

The JTC has agreed to begin the border reaffirmation in May 2025, with a follow-up meeting set for Kampala. The timeline underscores the complexity of managing borders, a task Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to oversee diligently.

Beyond border reaffirmation, the Goma meeting highlighted economic opportunities in the Kivu region, despite persistent security concerns. Several Ugandan companies, including Movit and Lato, have already established strong footholds in this market, supported by Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs through economic diplomacy efforts.

However, ongoing security issues remain a challenge for traders, forcing them to take longer, less secure routes. Despite this, Ugandan agricultural products continue to thrive in the DRC, highlighting the economic potential for sustained engagement.

The JTC concluded with recommendations for both governments to secure funds for the border reaffirmation and proposed a joint military effort to clear and secure the border areas during the process. These collaborative measures underscore the importance of coordinated efforts in achieving a successful outcome, with Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs playing a central role in guiding this cross-border cooperation.